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Revolutionizing earthmoving and mining in Africa

In a strategic move set to transform the landscape of earthmoving and mining operations in Sub-Saharan Africa, K-Tec, a leading manufacturer of innovative earthmoving scrapers, has announced a partnership with Ukwazi, a prominent mining services provider in the region. This collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to enhance efficiency, productivity and sustainability in the mining and construction sectors.

K-Tec’s cutting-edge technology

K-Tec, renowned for its advanced earthmoving scrapers, has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation to provide equipment that offers superior performance, durability and efficiency. The company’s product line includes scrapers designed for various applications, from large-scale mining operations to heavy construction projects. K-Tec’s scrapers are known for their high load capacities, fuel efficiency and the ability to handle tough terrain, making them an ideal choice for the demanding conditions often found in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

The K-Tec pull-pan scrapers are towed behind high-horsepower tractors or articulated dump trucks for a solution that offers one operator and one engine running to pick up material, transport material and spread the material evenly and efficiently. K-Tec’s scrapers have been successfully moving material on all seven continents of the world. K-Tec scrapers have been effective in the mining market with a proven track record of stripping overburden, mine reclamation, haul road smoothing, gold, salt, lithium, potash, aggregate, clay, bauxite and gypsum rock transportation for processing.

Ukwazi’s local expertise

Ukwazi, headquartered in South Africa, has established itself as a key player in the mining and construction sectors across Sub-Saharan Africa. With a deep understanding of local market dynamics, regulatory environments and operational challenges, Ukwazi brings invaluable insights and expertise to the partnership. Their extensive distribution network and strong relationships with mining companies and construction firms make them an excellent partner for K-Tec as they expand their footprint in the region.

Ukwazi’s Contracts Manager, Werner Louw, comments on the new agreement: “Ukwazi has selected K-Tec as its preferred partner, and their K-Tec scrapers as unique earth-moving equipment, due to their innovative, cost-effective safe and practical onsite applications. The innovative application of established equipment and methods aligns perfectly with our strategy to provide safe contract mining and site-construction solutions with a significant competitive advantage, reducing the cost per unit of material moved by up to 30% to 50%.

“Additionally, the environmental footprint is substantially lower, with diesel consumption approximately 30% to 40% less than conventional methods. Moreover, the reduced reliance on scarce water resources provides a significant advantage over wet mining systems. We look forward to implementing these methods to make a real difference to our clients in Sub-Saharan Africa.”

For the K-Tec Direct Mount and ADT scraper products, Ukwazi will obtain sales exclusivity in the region. K.A. Group’s International Business Development Manager, Allan Friesen, explains: “We have been searching for a knowledgeable and reputable distributor in the African region for quite some time and are confident that we have found the right partner in Ukwazi. Their representation, promotion, distribution and servicing of our K-Tec brand of equipment to heavy construction contractors and mining operators in their region allows for a massive advantage in productivity.”

Synergies and strategic goals

The partnership between K-Tec and Ukwazi is founded on the complementary strengths of both organisations. K-Tec’s technological prowess and product innovation will be synergised with Ukwazi’s market knowledge and distribution capabilities.

This collaboration aims to achieve several strategic goals:
  • Enhanced product availability: By leveraging Ukwazi’s extensive distribution network, K-Tec’s advanced scrapers will become more accessible to mining and construction companies throughout the region. This increased availability is expected to drive significant improvements in project timelines and cost efficiencies.
  • Local support and service: Ukwazi’s established presence in the region ensures that customers will receive prompt and reliable support, maintenance and service for K-Tec equipment. This local support is crucial for minimising downtime and maximising the lifespan and performance of the machinery.
  • Tailored solutions for regional challenges: Sub-Saharan Africa presents unique challenges, from harsh environmental conditions to logistical complexities. The combined expertise of K-Tec and Ukwazi will enable the development of customised solutions that address these specific challenges, ensuring that equipment performs optimally under varying conditions.
  • Sustainable practices: Both K-Tec and Ukwazi are committed to promoting sustainable practices within the industry. The use of K-Tec’s fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly equipment will contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of mining and construction projects, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Impact on the industry

The partnership between K-Tec and Ukwazi is poised to have a significant impact on the earthmoving and mining sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa. Companies in the region will benefit from access to state-of-the-art equipment and fit-for-purpose applications that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, the collaboration will likely stimulate economic growth by supporting large-scale infrastructure projects and mining operations which are critical to the development of the region.

Future prospects

Looking ahead, K-Tec and Ukwazi plan to explore further opportunities for collaboration, including the introduction of new technologies, partnership on major projects and initiatives aimed at workforce development and training. By fostering innovation and sharing knowledge, both companies aim to drive progress and set new standards in the industry.

In conclusion, the alliance between K-Tec and Ukwazi marks a pivotal moment for the earthmoving and mining sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa. With a shared vision of excellence and a commitment to addressing the region’s unique challenges, this partnership is set to pave the way for a more efficient, productive and sustainable future.

Digital Transformation Summit 2025

The 35th Edition of the Digital Transformation Summit is part of a global series of events which has taken place in more than 10 cities across multiple continents over the past few years.

Digital Transformation is a requisite on the corporate agenda. It is fundamentally changing how businesses operate and deliver value to customers. The agenda at the Digital Transformation Summit has been meticulously crafted to identify critical approaches needed to make informed business decisions, improve operational efficiency and drive digital culture forward.

South Africa’s digital transformation market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.5% from now to 2032, reflecting its rapid expansion in the digital sector.

The Summit will bring together 300+ C-Level Executives, Directors, and Heads of Technology to discuss the potential of AI, Web 3.0, IoT, Quantum Computing, Cyber Security and other 4IR technologies, revealing the insights needed to embrace impactful change now!

Find out more: https://digitransformationsummit.com/south-africa/

Revolutionize your Nitrogen applications with StocklogCC

Made in Europe. Maximum 350 bar(g) and a volume flow up to 1000 m³/h.

Are you looking for a comprehensive Nitrogen solution tailored to your specific needs? Look no further than StocklogCC. We offer a complete range of nitrogen systems designed to meet a variety of applications, ensuring top-notch performance and reliability every time.

Our nitrogen systems cater to a wide array of industries and purposes, including:
  • Blanketing of Chemicals
  • Gas Assisted Injection Molding (GAIM)
  • Heat Treatment of Ferrous & Non-Ferrous Metals
  • Inerting of Flammable Liquids
  • Laser Cutting
  • Prevention of Dust Explosions
  • Re-flow and Wave Soldering of PCBs
  • UV-Curing of Coatings
  • Food Processing

StocklogCC is offering the complete nitrogen solution for your needs. From the air feeding compressor over the pre-filtration and nitrogen generators up to the high-pressure storage. Maximum 350 bar(g) and a volume flow up to 1000 m³/h.

The StocklogCC advantage:

Our nitrogen generators, part of the N-GEN series, utilize Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology to efficiently extract nitrogen from ambient air while eliminating other gases. With operating pressures ranging from 6 to 10 bar(g), and nitrogen purity levels reaching up to 99.999%, you can trust in our world-leading technology for consistent and reliable performance.

Key features of our nitrogen generators:
  • Operating temperature range of 15 to 50°C
  • Dew point of atmospheric N² below -45°C
  • Capacity ranging from 0.83 to 766.8 Nm³/h

Unleash maximum efficiency with our nitrogen boosters:

Our nitrogen boosters from the SAUER and HAUG product lines are engineered for optimal performance and safety across a wide range of applications. With various models available, you can customize your system to achieve peak efficiency and minimal nitrogen losses, even during compression of high-purity nitrogen (99.999%).

Features of our nitrogen boosters:

  • Inlet pressures up to 10 barg
  • Final pressures up to 500 barg
  • Volume flow rates reaching up to 1,000 m³/h

Enhanced flexibility and reliability

Our compressors offer maximum flexibility and reliability, with options for oil-free or oil-lubricated versions depending on your requirements. Designed for trouble-free operation even under extreme conditions and certified for safety according to industrial standards, our compressors are the perfect complement to your nitrogen system.

Experience the StocklogCC difference today and transform your nitrogen applications with cutting-edge technology, unmatched efficiency, and unparalleled reliability. Contact us now to explore our range of solutions and take your operations to the next level.

StocklogCC – Your Trusted Partner for Nitrogen Excellence.

www.stocklogcc.com | info@stocklogcc.com | +27(0)217830274

Gateway to market access for small businesses

UWC and Sanlam leadership at the launch of the initiative on 8 October 2024.

How do you leapfrog from a community-based operation to a CBD marketplace? The sustainability of any business is built on the premise of a strong network and the promise of access to market. Community businesses lack the necessary network connections to leverage trade opportunities in the CBD.

Market access comes at a premium. We have all heard the narrative that small businesses are the fuel of the economy, the engine that will revitalise the economy. The National Development Plan (NDP) envisions a South Africa where small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) are at the epicentre of economic development.

The ailing South African Post Office in Sanlamhof at 4 Strand Street, located next to the Sanlam Head Office, served the Bellville and surrounding communities for decades. Although there is no replacement for the fond memories of receiving a handwritten letter or a parcel, the community is now invited to support a somewhat different service: the University of the Western Cape (UWC) Trading Incubator at Sanlam, thanks to the visionary and collaborative leadership of these two parties.

The Incubator will house businesses such as Silulo Ulutho Technologies, Brown Girl Creations and CorpChem Chemicals, each bringing unique products and services to the community. This collaboration between UWC and Sanlam is set to play a pivotal role in job creation, innovation and community upliftment, marking a significant step towards economic empowerment for township businesses.

UWC Sanlam partnership

At the heart of the UWC Sanlam partnership is providing of hope and a hand-up for SMMEs to remain a beacon of hope for the youth in communities who aspire to become entrepreneurs. This partnership aligns with UWC motto, “A place of quality, a place to grow. From hope to action through knowledge”.

This impactful initiative seeks to provide a solution to the challenges often faced by SMMEs. In addition to market access, it provides businesses affordable trading spaces, expert coaching and regular networking events, positioning them for long-term success.

The University of the Western Cape is committed to building an equitable and dynamic society. The establishment of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) in 2012 was an extension of the UWC mission to contribute to the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty and income inequality. Over a 10-year period the CEI has positioned itself as an expert provider of cutting-edge business development support and customised mentoring and coaching support during and after incubation. The Trading Incubator is unique as the first initiative of its kind linked to a university solely focussed on providing a gateway to market access and wrap-around support for community SMMEs.

This impactful initiative seeks to provide a solution to the challenges often faced by SMMEs. In addition to market access, it provides businesses affordable trading spaces, expert coaching and regular networking events, positioning them for long-term success.

Growing an inclusive economy

The Incubator is part of UWC’s broader mission to stimulate inclusive economic growth. It targets financial inclusion across gender, race and age, with a special focus on black-owned businesses.

Manie Regal, UWC’s executive director of finance, adds: “This Incubator is not just about boosting small businesses, it’s about creating a path to economic empowerment for marginalised communities. By giving community businesses access to trading spaces in Bellville, we are also contributing to the revitalisation of the area, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant economy.”

Paul Hanratty, CEO of Sanlam, says, “SMMEs are vital to driving sustainable job creation in South Africa. Through the Incubator, we are not only providing community businesses with access to markets but also contributing to the future growth of our economy.”

Community entrepreneurs

The first cohort consists of nine township-based businesses, of which four are woman-owned businesses. It covers a range of industries such as Internet cafe, African clothing, home decor, fashion accessories, rustic furniture, beds and biltong. The entrepreneurs pay a developmental rental of R50 per square metre. Since the launch, the resident entrepreneurs have exhibited their products at the Bellville Business Expo (17-18 October) which was held at Tygervalley Shopping Centre. They were also given access to Sanlam’s monthly Market Day.

Call to action

Corporate South Africa and the public sector need to join forces to ignite a new dawn to restore dignified livelihoods for all South Africans.

South Africa needs more incubators linked to universities if the SMME sector is going to reach its potential in driving job creation and economic growth. UWC has built up a blueprint over a decade to support the growth of both business and personal leadership skills of township SMMEs.

Sanlam has been generous in its support, providing the facility at zero rental, plus covering additional overheads such as monthly security and cleaning costs.

Corporate South Africa and the public sector need to join forces to ignite a new dawn to restore dignified livelihoods for all South Africans.

Sanlam also covered all the refurbishment costs as well as the painting and branding to creatively repurpose the post office. The CEI is responsible for managing the Incubator, monitoring and tracking impact and organising monthly networking sessions.

Hanratty adds, “We call on corporate South Africa to join us in supporting SMMEs. Through shared resources, mentorship and access to markets, we can ensure that our entrepreneurs succeed and contribute to South Africa’s economic future. Now is the time for the private sector to step up and be part of the solution.”

About the CEI

The CEI specialises in community and youth entrepreneurship projects. Targeted and transformative projects include the Fellows leadership and mentoring programme, the Master Builders Contractors project and Digital Skills. Youth projects focus on nurturing the next generation of innovators. As the 2024 Enactus National Champions, the Enactus UWC team proudly represented South Africa at the prestigious 2024 Enactus World Cup.

For more information, email Klamani@uwc.ac.za

Promoting food security, building a sustainable business

Foskor is a producer and distributor of phosphate rock, phosphate-based fertilisers, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and magnetite locally and internationally. Credit: Foskor

Food security is always an important and urgent matter but it is not an issue that is always widely reported. When the global Covid epidemic was quickly followed by war in eastern Europe, supply chains were disrupted to such an extent that shortages of food and medicine became an everyday concern for people across the world.

Not the perfect time to take over the reins of a large and diverse company which reported a 2021/22 financial loss of R541-million, you might think. But that is what faced Julian Palliam when he was named Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Foskor in March 2022.

Foskor is a producer and distributor of phosphate rock, phosphate-based fertilisers, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and magnetite locally and internationally. Granular fertilisers are the core ingredient in nitrogen, phosphate and potassium fertiliser products known as NPKs. The company employs approximately 1 500 people in three locations: the Phalaborwa Mining Division, the Richards Bay Acid Division and the head office in Midrand.

It is often said that times of crisis can be times of opportunity. And so it proved for Foskor. By ramping up production of the vital ingredients for fertilisers which is the core of its business, Foskor was able to increase its order book in Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, in South Africa and across the SADC region.

With commodity prices rising at the same time, company revenue increased exponentially but there were also several measures taken to improve performance through cost efficiencies and the recovery of impairments on financial assets.

Foskor turned a profit and is now standing stronger than ever before.

The improved financial performance of Foskor has revived the possibility that the company may be listed on the JSE.

The Mining Division reports an improved safety record, maintenance of a high standard of quality management and the successful conversion of mining rights. In addition, various infrastructure improvement projects are progressing well.

At Richards Bay the Acid Division has three sulphuric acid plants, two streams of phosphoric acid plants and a granulation plant to make granular fertiliser products. Phosphoric acid is either exported in its acid form, sold locally, or used in the production of granular fertiliser at Foskor. Granular fertiliser is mainly sold locally. A recent highlight for this division is the development two new granular fertiliser products.

The Acid Division manufactures phosphoric acid and granular fertilisers at Richards Bay in KwaZulu-Natal. Credit: Foskor

Looking ahead

In June 2023 the CEO and President of Foskor, Julian Palliam, was elected as a board member of the International Fertilizer Association (IFA). This gives Foskor an opportunity to be on the international map and to participate in provision of direction to the future of the fertiliser global industry, as well as to foster partnerships with global players to ensure future sustainability of the industry.

Julian Palliam, Foskor CEO and President.

The IFA has about 450 members in 80 countries and aims to promote the efficient and responsible production, distribution and use of plant nutrients. The 2023 IFA conference topic was, “Where Food and Energy Market Meet”.

Palliam, who held several senior positions at ABB before joining Foskor as Chief Financial Officer in 2019, is credited with having the necessary strategic vision at a critical time for the company.

The improved financial performance of Foskor has revived the possibility that the company may be listed on the JSE. With a R2.8-bllion profit in the financial year to the end of March 2023, the possibility of a listing has increased after years of losses. The company’s biggest shareholder, the Industrial Development Corporation, has signalled its intention of selling down its majority share. If this were to happen, the injection of new shareholder capital would further boost Foskor’s prospects.

If Foskor were to expand, jobs would be created and Foskor is active in helping create the next generation of engineers. The Foskor Graduates and Graduates in Training bursary programme is currently supporting 14 students in mechanical, electrical, mining, chemical and electronic engineering, accounting and geology.

In addition, Foskor runs a Leadership Development Programme in partnership with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). The programme aims to build a talent-development culture aligned with Foskor’s philosophy, vision and values. As a skills-based organisation, Foskor recognises the importance of talent management. The development programme was designed for the middle and senior management to improve their management leadership skills.

In addition to its bursary and leadership programmes, Foskor, in partnership with chemical training authority CHIETA, has over the last few years spent more than R4.5-million on learnerships, apprenticeships and work-integrated learning programmes. Credit: Foskor

Topics covered include an understanding of key theories and approaches of leadership and management, knowledge of leadership roles and techniques, development of an ability to gather, evaluate and use information to make informed and well-reasoned decisions, an understanding of communication theory, and the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences, using an array of media and types of technology, and an understanding of ethical behaviour in leadership and management.

When Palliam congratulated the participants during the latest graduation ceremony, he encouraged them by sharing the famous quote by Steve Jobs, “Stay hungry, stay foolish.”

Also read: A practical, three-pronged approach to food security

Markets

Foskor is the leading domestic producer and supplier of phosphate-based products: phosphate rock, phosphoric acid and mono-ammonium phosphate. Beyond serving the local market and SADC regional markets (DRC, eSwatini, Zimbabwe, Zambia, etc.), Foskor supplies phosphoric acid and mono-ammonium phosphate to international markets, particularly India, the world’s largest market of phosphate products.

The company also supplies phosphoric acid to other international markets (Brazil, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Belgium and France). While the bulk of phosphate-rock concentrate is used in the Foskor phosphoric acid manufacturing plant, available products are also exported to international markets (Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, Lithuania, New Zealand and Japan).

Connected Banking Southern Africa 2025

The Connected Banking Summit Innovation & Excellence Awards 2025 – Southern Africa is set to take place on May 21, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa. This transformative event focuses on redefining the region’s financial future by tackling challenges, showcasing innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration across the ecosystem.

With the theme “Shaping the Future of Banking in Southern Africa: Innovation, Connectivity, and Financial Resilience Resilience,” the summit will convene industry leaders, policymakers, technology innovators, and financial sector professionals to share strategies for creating a resilient and inclusive financial ecosystem.

Key Highlights:

  • Actionable Insights: Explore digital transformation, financial inclusion, cybersecurity, and AI-driven banking solutions.
  • Expert Perspectives: Gain insights from global and regional leaders on overcoming challenges in digital banking adoption.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with BFSI executives, fintech innovators, and tech providers.
  • Industry Recognition: Celebrate trailblazing contributions to Southern Africa’s BFSI sector at the Innovation & Excellence Awards.
  • Focused Discussions: Dive deep into mobile banking, open banking, digital payments, and fintech partnerships.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for C-suite executives, senior decision-makers, fintech innovators, regulators, and other professionals in the BFSI sector committed to driving transformation in Southern Africa.

Visit event website

GTR Africa 2025

GTR Africa returns to Cape Town, South Africa on March 13-14. This flagship event will deliver essential insights spanning trade, supply chain, infrastructure, working capital, export and commodity financing markets.

Featuring over 60 speakers and anticipating the participation of more than 600 delegates, GTR Africa 2025 offers a prime opportunity to engage with key figures in African trade.

Event features:

  • 30+ exhibitors
  • 8+ hours of networking opportunities with key stakeholders in the industry
  • Unparalleled expertise from 60+ speakers
  • Exceptional content on topics and regions covered
  • Opportunity to schedule meetings & swap business cards
  • Invitation to the evening networking reception

As a supporting partner, we have secured free corporate rate tickets to this event, for new registrations only. Available for non-financial corporate companies who are exporters, importers, manufacturers, distributors, traders and producers of physical goods only. All others can receive a 10% discount.

Register your interest and confirm your eligibility to receive exclusive discounts and promotional offers via www.gtreview.com/gtrafricapartneroffers or by contacting Elisabeth at espry@gtreview.com.

This event is unmissable for anyone seeking expert insight and opportunities for networking, engagement, and knowledge sharing. Visit www.gtreview.com/gtrafrica for the agenda and speaker line-up.

We look forward to seeing you there!

New product offers households cheaper power

GreenSun Renewable Energy rooftop rolar. Credit: Greg Cornell

South African homeowners now have an opportunity to purchase power from private providers. GreenSun Renewable Energy is offering a power purchase agreement, something that was previously only available to large businesses.

The EnergyEase product is an Energy-as-a-Service offering designed for South African homeowners which allows users to address escalating municipal rates by purchasing the energy produced by their system at a lower cost than local municipal electricity rates.

With EnergyEase, GreenSun installs and owns all necessary solar equipment including panels, inverters, batteries and smart meters. Homeowners purchase the generated solar power through a smart meter and app-based wallet system at a lower price than they would from the local municipality. Initially, each kWh will be slightly cheaper than municipal electricity, but over time, as GreenSun’s rates increase at a slower pace than Eskom’s, the savings will grow significantly.

This launch is timely for South African homeowners facing steep increases in prepaid and post-paid electricity bills. As of April 2024, recent Eskom price hikes, approved by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), have led to an 18.65% increase for 2023/24, followed by an additional 12.74% rise for 2024/25.

Despite these increases, Eskom continues to grapple with reliability issues and energy experts predict that loadshedding will persist. Since loadshedding started in 2008, electricity prices have risen by 450%, far exceeding the 98% inflation rate over the same period. This means that tariff hikes have more than quadrupled the rate of headline inflation, outpacing it by 352%.

EnergyEase represents South Africa’s first, true residential-power purchase agreement, transforming the way energy consumption is approached. Homeowners benefit from lower energy rates and increased reliability, paying only for the energy generated and stored by their system rather than fixed monthly costs, making it a more economical choice compared to the current rate of R4.73 per kWh of the City of Cape Town, for instance.

EnergyEase represents South Africa’s first, true residential-power purchase agreement, transforming the way energy consumption is approached.

The system is equipped to handle high summer energy demands, such as powering air conditioners and pumps, while also offering cost savings during winter when energy production is lower. GreenSun’s backup system ensures comprehensive home connectivity, unlike traditional systems that support only basic lighting and plug points.

EnergyEase features advanced smart metering technology for remote energy management and monitoring. Daily consumption is reconciled and credited, with the convenience of topping up the smart wallet through various payment methods.

Addressing the challenge of frequent loadshedding, EnergyEase provides a reliable power source, ensuring that essential appliances remain operational even during outages. This backup power solution offers security and peace of mind to homeowners.

“We are thrilled to introduce EnergyEase to the South African market,” says Xavier Louw, CEO and co-founder at GreenSun Renewable Energy. “Our aim is to offer a cost-effective, sustainable energy solution that eases the financial burden on homeowners while providing access to reliable and clean energy without upfront costs.”

Benefits of EnergyEase

  • Energy independence: Reliable power during loadshedding and outages.
  • Significant savings: Lower kWh cost without being tied into a fixed rental monthly fee.
  • Environmental impact: Reduced carbon footprint and commitment to sustainable energy.

EnergyEase is ideal for homeowners with monthly electricity bills of R2 500 or more, who seek to reduce costs and ensure a stable power supply.

To learn more about GreenSun Renewable Energy and EnergyEase, visit https://greensun.co.za/energy-ease/

Credit: Greg Cornell

Residential estates can benefit from economies of scale

The opportunities are endless, says Xavier Louw, CEO and co-founder of GreenSun Renewable Energy, of his company’s new EnergyEase offering.

Is energy-as-a-service (EAAS) a growing market?

EAAS or PPA (power-purchase agreement) offerings are becoming more and more popular. The main reasons are that the risk of ownership is completely mitigated for the user as the performance of the system, maintenance and any cost associated with system performance is for the account of the system owner/service provider and not the user. The cost of energy is a function of the system yield and not fixed per month. Seasonal weather conditions play a big part in the monthly performance and associated service fees.

When did you come up with EnergyEase?

We started in 2019 with the idea, but the technology was still too expensive and the electricity rates too low to make it viable. Since then, the cost of hardware has come down, performance of these systems have improved and electricity rates have increased substantially.

Are you looking beyond individual householders?

This EnergyEase solution is very attractive for individual homeowners, but even more so for residential estates where they can benefit from economies of scale. If the billing is done by the estate, with a bulk-meter connection with the municipality, it is even more attractive. The estate can set up different rates for the buying and selling of electricity within the estate, where surplus solar power can be generated by one house and bought by the next house and everything is managed by a smart microgrid controller.

Then we add load management to the system and it will control, for instance, all the geysers in the estate to use maximum solar power to heat up during the day and at night it will use the cheapest time-of-use rate from the municipality to do any further heating for the morning. This can be extended to electric-vehicle charging, the opportunities are endless.

The idea is ultimately to be as self-sufficient as possible and to bring the electrical costs down as much as possible by utilising maximum solar and battery power.

Is there a rent-to-buy option?

There are many rent-to-own options in the market, but we don’t believe that is the best way forward. This again puts all the risk with the home owner, so if the system fails before the rent-to-own period is over they will still be liable for the monthly rent or instalments. The homeowner is also responsible for the system’s performance, so if it doesn’t perform as expected the fixed monthly rental is still due and it’s the homeowner’s responsibility to fix the system.

Are technology upgrades built into the contract?

Since the client only pays for the generated solar power, it will be in our best interest (and the client’s) to ensure the technology used is the best on the market to ensure maximum uptime and yield.

How fast has your business grown?

We’ve grown exponentially over the last couple of years. GreenSun Renewable Energy was founded in 2011 by myself and my brother, Andeon Louw. Our head office is in Cape Town with a branch in Gauteng.

Are you expanding your area of operation?

We are continuously looking at new opportunities, but already have inhouse capacity to service the Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal.

What were your main divisions of work before this?

GreenSun has always exclusively been active in the solar and storage market as an EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) in the commercial, agricultural and residential sectors. We’ve had lots of learnings, understand the residential market very well and see the benefits this product can bring.

About GreenSun Renewable Energy

GreenSun Renewable Energy has been a trusted name in the renewable energy sector for over 13 years, known for exceptional installations and a commitment to world-class products. The company offers tailored solutions, including on-grid, off-grid and battery-backup-only systems, with a focus on reliability, affordability and environmental sustainability.

State of the Nation Address (SoNA) 2025

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver the State of the Nation Address (SoNA) on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 7pm. The address will take place before a joint sitting of the two houses of Parliament. The theme for the 2025 SoNA is a “A nation that works, for all”.

The address is an important milestone as it brings certainty to the country’s political, social and economic landscape. It demonstrates that South Africa’s democracy remains robust.

In the address, President Cyril Ramaphosa sets out government’s key policy objectives and deliverables for the year ahead, flag challenges and outline interventions to unlock our nation’s potential.

During his address, the President also highlights what has been achieved since his last address in 2024. He also reflects on the progress made in implementing the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP).

Fast facts

  • The State of the Nation Address is divided into three parts. The first is the important public participation role in the ceremony when the Civil Guard of Honour welcomes the President and his guests as they walk along the red carpet. This is followed by a state ceremonial, which includes a 21-gun salute and the South African Air Force flypast and finally the official address by the President.
  • Members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) line the route that the President takes to Parliament.
  • The Military Guard of Honour participates in the ceremony and the military band plays South Africa’s national anthem.
  • In a general election year, two State of the Nation Addresses are delivered.
  • The State of the Nation Address is one of the rare occasions where the three arms of State, namely the Executive represented by the President, Deputy President and Ministers; the Judiciary, represented by the country’s Chief Justice and the Judge Presidents; and the Legislature, represented by the Members of Parliament gather in one place.
  • The provincial and local spheres of government are also represented.

What is the State of the Nation Address?

The State of the Nation Address (SoNA) is an annual address to the nation delivered by the President of the Republic of South Africa as the Head of State. During SoNA, the President will highlight achievements, flag challenges, and outline interventions for the coming financial year, deliberating on South Africa’s domestic affairs as well as its continental and international relations.

When is the State of the Nation Address happening?

This year’s State of the Nation Address will be delivered on Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 19:00 from the Cape Town City Hall and proceedings will be broadcast from 17:00 onwards. The address is delivered at a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament (National Assembly and National Council of Provinces).

What is the theme for the 2025 State of the Nation Address?

The theme for the 2025 SoNA is a “A nation that works, for all”.

Where can I watch or get access more information about the State of the Nation Address?

South Africans can tune into their favourite television or radio station to be part of this important national milestone.  Proceedings will also be covered via government and Pparliament social media accounts. Parliament TV (DStv Channel 408) or Parliament’s website: www.parliament.gov.za

Who can attend SoNA?

The SoNA guest list is made up of publicly elected representatives from the national, provincial and local spheres of governmentgovernment leaders, which includes Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Premiers, MECs as well as the leadership of the South African Local Government Association (SALGA). The sitting similarly includes representatives of the House of Traditional Leaders, members of the public and representatives from civil organisations and other invited guests in the Public Gallery, among others.

Former Presidents and Deputy Presidents as well as leaders and representatives of our Judiciary are invited to attend SoNA as well.

How can the public participate in the State of the Nation Address?

South Africans can attend the State of the Nation Address as invited guests of Parliament either as Civil Guards of Honour, Junior Guards of Honour or Eminent persons.

  • The Civil Guards of Honour are made up of ordinary South Africans.
  • The Junior Guards of Honour are drawn from schools around SA.
  • Eminent persons are nominated by the Speaker of each Provincial Legislature – nominated on the basis of their contribution to society.

What is the link between the State of the Nation Address and Budget?

The State of the Nation Address outlines government’s programme priorities for the year, while the Minister of Finance allocates the Budget in line with the priorities outlined in the State of the Nation Address.

What is the role of Parliament especially regarding its oversight function?

Parliament conducts oversight to ensure that government delivers on the priorities set out in the State of the Nation Address and that allocated funds are spent accordingly.

What happens after the State of The Nation Address?

Political parties have an opportunity to debate, comment and raise questions on matters addressed in the President’s speech during a debate on the President’s State of the Nation Address. This debate usually takes place over two days in a joint sitting and this year the debate is scheduled for 12 to 13 February 2025. The President will have the opportunity to reply to the debate on 14 February 2025.

Follow the conversation on social media using #SONA2025 #GovZAUpdates #ServiceDeliveryZA

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